I submitted my new passport application today to the local passport reception office. They glowed about me because not only had I listened to their phone advice, I followed it: I had the right money orders with me, and the forms seemed to be filled out without error. They tell me I should have the passport in my hands by 3 June. That sounds good. I'll book my tickets for a June 11 departure, which, God willing, should provide me with a fudging margin in case of complications.